The RCMP plans to host a study on the mental health and wellness of its Officers, according to a recent report by the CBC. The study, released for tender, is looking to better understand vulnerabilities and resiliencies amongst its membership. It is particularly interested in the incidence and manifestation of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The CBC report notes that 46.9 percent of long-term disability claims within the Force mention a mental health concern. This has risen from 41.7 percent in 2014.
Operational Stress Injuries, which include PTSD, are persistent psychological difficulties which result from operational duties in any workplace, and often disproportionately impact services such as police forces, paramedics, firefighters, correctional officers, and Canadian Armed Forces personnel. They can be caused by a singular traumatic event (such as attending to a crime scene), or from sustained work in a stressful environment (such as prolonged combat operations, or work in remote locations).
CMHA Ontario hosts a program for workplaces looking to better understand mental health and wellness, called Mental Health Works. Mental Health Works provides employers with a holistic understanding of mental health and mental illnesses, and promotes tools that workplaces can implement to increase employee resiliency and help-seeking. A module specifically addressing the unique characteristics of Operational Stress is now available.
For more information on Mental Health Works please visit the program website.
If you, or a loved one, are in need of resources please visit our services and supports resource page.